Category Tow Trucks

Tow trucks come in various shapes, sizes, and strength levels. Understanding the different types is the first step in knowing the right one that suits your business needs. At their core, tow trucks are used to move vehicles from one location to another, making them a valuable asset in areas where vehicle recovery or transportation services are in high demand.

Without further ado, let’s unravel the various types of tow trucks there are and their functions to help you make the right choice. 

WHAT ARE TOW TRUCKS USED FOR?

Tow trucks are used for transporting vehicles such as improperly parked cars, disabled vehicles, or damaged cars. They are also useful during emergencies and accidents to recover vehicles that are stuck. The following are the different ways a tow truck can be used:

• Vehicle recovery
• Illegal parking
• Vehicle transportation
• Vehicle repossession
• Impoundment
• Emergency roadside assistance
• Accident clearance

The kind of tow truck used largely depends on the type of situation and the size of the vehicle. 

TYPES OF TOW TRUCKS

While tow trucks are powerful equipment given that they possess the power to lift other vehicles, they are not all built the same way. They come in different sizes and capabilities, which makes identifying the right one to use very essential. Below are the different types you will find around:

FLATBED OR ROLLBACK TOW TRUCKS

Flatbed bed tow trucks are also called rollbacks. They are designed with a flat platform that can be hydraulically inclined to ground level. This feature allows for safely winching immobile and damaged vehicles into the bed. It can also be used by car dealers to transport new cars across states while guaranteeing a safe delivery of these vehicles.  

A major benefit of a flatbed is that it helps to reduce the risk of having further damage done to the towed vehicle and can be used for multiple purposes. However, flatbeds can come with certain limitations such as not being able to fit into tight spaces. 

HOOK AND CHAIN TOW TRUCK 

This is one of the oldest tow trucks you will see around today. This kind comes with hooks and chains that are wrapped around the vehicle to lift them into the truck. The primary purpose of a hook-and-chain tow truck is to lift damaged, wrecked, or junk vehicles and take them off the road. They can also come in handy in lifting vehicles stuck in a ditch or snow. However, they are not ideal for day-to-day use because of the potential damage they can cause during towing. 

If you are considering towing vehicles with significant damage, then a hook-and-chain truck is what you may be looking to buy. If not, you might want to explore the other options as this is not ideal for modern vehicles.

WHEEL LIFT TOW TRUCK

The wheel lift tow truck uses a metal yoke to hook either the front or rear wheels of a vehicle to lift them off the ground. It works similarly to the hook and chain truck, but by targeting only the wheels, the wheel lift tow truck minimizes the risk of damage to the vehicle. 

Generally, it is more suitable for towing smaller vehicles over short distances and in the case of urgent removal of vehicles from the road. It is also quicker and more efficient than the hook-and-chain truck, given that there is less potential for vehicle damage. On the downside, it may not be suitable for all-wheel-drive.

BOOM TOW TRUCK

A boom truck employs the use of a hydraulic crane that is mounted on its frame for towing a vehicle. What this boom does is lift various heavy materials and equipment, making it indispensable in multiple industries such as construction, and others. Instead of a hook or metal yoke, the boom truck uses a belt which reduces the risk of damage.

Industries rely on boom tow trucks because of its versatility. It can perform many tasks at once, thus reducing the need for additional equipment. It also simplifies workflow as it is easy to move around. But just like the wheel lift, they are not ideal for vehicles with all-wheel drive.

INTEGRATED TOW TRUCK

These are heavy-duty tow trucks built for towing large vehicles. Designed with an industrial boom, there is almost no vehicle that an integrated tow truck cannot handle. You will often see them used to recover vehicles from ditches or other heavy equipment on busy roads or in the event of an accident. 

In a nutshell, you can rely on an integrated truck if you are looking for high versatility and a vehicle that can handle a wide range of vehicles or equipment. Due to its strength, it may be limited in maneuverability in confined areas.

HEAVY-DUTY ROTATOR TOW TRUCK

If you are looking for something more versatile than the integrated tow truck that can handle any complex recovery, then the heavy-duty rotator is what you are looking for. It is equipped with a rotating boom capable of pivoting up to 360 degrees. This configuration makes it easy to recover vehicles in particularly hard-to-reach locations. These heavy-duty trucks have sturdy frames that enable them to recover other trucks and large equipment. 

WHAT IS THE BEST TOW TRUCK TO BUY?

All different types of tow trucks achieve different purposes, and they all have their pros and cons. These make it difficult to give a direct answer on the best tow truck to buy. Ideally, you want to assess your reasons for buying one and the kind of vehicles you want to tow. 

If you are looking at towing immobile vehicles, a flatbed would be an excellent choice as it provides a secure platform and minimizes the risk of damage to the vehicle during transport. An integrated or heavy-duty tow truck can be a great investment if your target is to handle large vehicles in complex situations.  

Ultimately, consider your operational requirements, budget, and the typical environments where you’ll be towing. This will guide you toward selecting the tow truck that aligns with your specific business needs.

FINANCING DIFFERENT TOW TRUCKS WITH INSPIRED FUNDING

Just like tow trucks vary in size and functions, they also vary in terms of price. And buying a new one can dig a hole in your finances without proper planning. The best way to stay ahead is by partnering with a truck financing expert like Inspired Funding.

With years of experience and success with different clients, Inspired Funding can help you explore your financing options regardless of your credit background. It’s all about finding what works best for your unique situation while helping you get funding for your dream truck.

Tow trucks are indispensable equipment in the automotive and logistics industries. They offer the muscle needed to haul vehicles of all sizes, whether damaged or for emergency purposes. 

As we approach 2025, it is almost impossible to overlook how technological innovations and groundbreaking engineering have elevated truck designs, making them more efficient, reliable, and versatile. In this blog post, we present some of the best tow truck models to consider in 2025.

FORD SUPER DUTY F-SERIES

The Ford Super Duty F-series offers a lineup that continues to raise the bar for heavy-duty tow trucks. This includes the F-250, F-350, and the F-450, designed to handle the most demanding tasks.  These trucks have a best-in-class towing capacity, ranging from 22,000 pounds on the F-250 to an astounding 40,000 pounds on the F-450. The Super Duty line also features robust V8 gasoline and turbo-diesel engine options that provide unmatched performance, making them a favorite for hauling, construction, and long-distance towing.

Sophistication meets functionality in these trucks, as they combine rugged capabilities with luxurious interiors and cutting-edge towing technology, ensuring both comfort and confidence on every drive. For anyone in need of a truck that balances earth-moving power with intelligent design, the Ford Super Duty F-Series is a must-consider in 2025.

GMC SIERRA HD LINEUP

These workhorses have a maximum towing capacity of as much as 36,000 pounds, and they rank among the best trucks that one should consider purchasing in 2025. For power, these leading HD trucks have a 6.6L V8 engine, while the option for turbo diesel is unrivaled. Additionally, the innovative MultiPro tailgate significantly expands functionality, turning the toughest jobs into a breeze.

For the interiors, the Sierra HD lineup marries capability with comfort featuring a spacious crew cab. Also expect advanced towing technologies and intuitive infotainment systems that ensure safety, convenience, and confidence for the driver.  If you’re looking for a truck that’s as rugged as it is refined, the Sierra HD lineup deserves a place on your 2025 wishlist.

RAM HEAVY-DUTY TRUCKS

Other than being popularly excellent at towing, the leverage on high technology makes Ram heavy-duty trucks part of this list. If what you want is a durable truck, then Ram tow trucks have just that. With their over 20,000 pounds of towing capacity, they excel at hauling trailers and big vehicles. It is more about heavy-duty operators with attractive features like adaptive cruise control with stop functionality and monitoring of trailer tire pressure. 

The towing capacity of Ram 2500 extends up to 20,000 pounds for commercial or personal purposes. Additionally, it has a powerful 6.4L V8 engine that doles out seamless performance of 410 horsepower. 

The Ram 3500, however, redefines what a heavy-duty truck can offer. It boasts of a 23,000-pound towing capacity, industrial-grade power combined with a luxurious driving experience. You can also expect more from other models like the 4500, 5500 and 6500.

FREIGHTLINER M2 112

As a truck with outstanding dependability, the Freightliner M2 112 had grown into a favorite with medium-duty operators. Offering an easily maneuverable design combined with rugged durability and running on the Detroit® DD13 engine®, it delivers unrivaled horsepower and torque in every demanding situation that might require quick delivery. With huge heavy-duty hauls and maneuvering in confined parking spaces, the M2 112 handles these challenges thanks to its great maneuverability and ergonomic design.

The Freightliner M2 112 also ranks high for those truckers who consider environmental concerns by offering natural gas motor options. This makes it a top choice for eco-conscious companies without compromising power.

CHEVROLET SILVERADO HD LINEUP

Heavy-duty capability and refinement go hand in hand to make the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD contenders for 2025. The Silverado 2500HD boasts of an available towing of up to 20,000 pounds, while being enabled with an advanced 13.4-inch infotainment system. The off-road-ready ZR2 trim provides a healthy dose of ruggedness, while the strong 6.6L V8 sees to the consistent performance of the heavy jobs.

At the pinnacle of the lineup is the 3500HD. Truckers love the Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD because of its reliability in heavy-duty hauling and towing. It’s powered by the Duramax® 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8, with a maximum towing capacity of 36,000 pounds. The Chevrolet Silverado also features a multi-flex tailgate and an advanced trailering system that makes it even more usable-if you want efficiency and comfort.

KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A TOW TRUCK 

When choosing a tow truck, several factors should be considered, including towing capacity, engine options, cab and bed configurations, trim levels, technology and comfort features, and overall cost. Here’s a breakdown of key considerations:

TOWING CAPACITY

The towing capacity is perhaps the most important factor considered in buying a truck. Often, what you will want to haul determines how much the required towing capacity is. For example, the Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD has an upward of 36,000 pounds of towing capacity, while the Ford 250 offers up to 22,000 lbs. Aside from these, other models have lesser towing capacity, so ensure you align with your desired specification.

ENGINE OPTION AND PERFORMANCE 

Trucks come with various engine options, such as gasoline, diesel, and electric. The 2024 Ram 2500 comes with a standard gas 6.4-liter V8, although the option of diesel power is available. Ford provides hybrid and full-electric powertrains. Check for specific engines and performances since your choice can affect both power and fuel efficiency.

CAB AND BED CONFIGURATIONS

The choice of cab and bed configuration impacts the truck’s functionality. Options include regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab, as well as different bed lengths. Crew cabs offer more passenger space, while regular cabs prioritize cargo space. For example, the 2024 Ram 2500 is available in various cab and bed-length options.

TECHNOLOGY AND COMFORT

Different modern trucks have advanced technological features and comforts as evidenced from the models being explored. For instance, the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD has a 13.4-inch infotainment system, while the 2024 Ram 3500 has a great interior. Consider what features you want most for your needs, but make sure to include modern technology and comfortability in your priorities.

COST

The top brands of trucks mostly possess a high purchase price. However, other post-purchase expenses include fuel efficiency, insurance, and maintenance costs. The good thing is that there are several financing options to help you manage purchasing and repair costs seamlessly.

OTHER FACTORS

Go for models that are recognized for their reliability and durable service life. Other factors to consider include safety features, off-road capabilities, ride quality, and specific needs. Some trucks have relatively better off-road capabilities, such as the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado, excellent in this regard.

CONCLUSION

The tow truck market offers a wide range of options if you are looking to add new models to your fleet in 2025. From the heavy-duty Ford F-450 Super Duty to other alternatives like the Ram 3500, Ford F-350, and Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD, there are great options to pick from. Also remember to consider important factors like towing capacity, interior features, technology, and your specific needs and preferences. 

As you explore these tow truck models, remember that it is essential to have a reliable financing partner like Inspired Funding. With a suitable financing plan, you can focus more on choosing the best truck for your business, prioritizing those features that make for a smooth ride and durability. As for funding, we help you map out the financing plan that suits your unique situation, while ensuring you enjoy the peace of mind that comes with driving the best tow truck models. 

ABOUT INSPIRED FUNDING

Inspired Funding has helped hundreds of truck companies secure the trucks they need to succeed. Whether you’re expanding your fleet, starting a new business, or navigating bad credit, we’re here to make truck financing simple and stress-free. 

We specialize in truck financing designed to get your business on the road to success. From box trucks and dump trucks to cargo vans, semi-trucks, and other vocational vehicles, our process is easy. Get guaranteed low payment on used and no hard pulls on credit scores. 

With competitive interest rates, flexible down payments, and manageable repayment plans, you can focus on growing your business without the stress. Start your journey to funding today!